Journalists Killed in 2004 - Motive Confirmed: Lanka Jayasundara
- Document source:
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Date:
January 2005
Wijeya Publications
December 11, 2004, in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Jayasundara was killed in a December 11 grenade attack at a music concert that had drawn controversy because it was held on the anniversary of a Buddhist cleric's death.
Jayasundara was on assignment for Wijeya Publications, a sponsor of the event and publisher of several English- and Sinhala-language newspapers and magazines.
He was standing in the area between the stage and the VIP enclosure when the grenade exploded, according to news reports.
The Sri Lankan government vowed a full investigation into the case, which it has called "a mindless attack by lawless elements." No group took responsibility for the attack. A hotel employee was also killed, and many others were injured, according to news reports.
The show featured Bollywood stars such as Shahrukh Khan, drawing thousands of spectators and setting off protests in Colombo. Hours before the grenade exploded, police clashed with demonstrators who were angry that the musical event coincided with the first anniversary of the death of Buddhist cleric and Sinhala Buddhist nationalist Ven. Gangodawila Soma Thera.
| Medium: | |
| Job: | Print Reporter |
| Beats Covered: | Culture, Sports |
| Gender: | Male |
| Local or Foreign: | Local |
| Freelance: | No |
| Type of Death: | Dangerous Assignment |
| Suspected Source of Fire: | Political Group |
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